Four-time tennis Grand Slam champion Naomi Osaka has rejoined agency giant IMG for representation.
Key details:
- Osaka will be represented by IMG Tennis, the tennis division of WME Sports.
- Max Eisenbud will lead Osaka’s representation team, according to Sports Business Journal (SBJ).
A Return to the Industry leader
This move marks a important shift for Osaka, who initially departed from IMG in 2022 to co-found her own agency, Evolve, alongside her longtime agent Stuart Duguid Tennis.com. The decision to create Evolve was driven by a desire for greater control and flexibility over her commercial partnerships and brand management. Though, at the close of 2025, Osaka elected to dissolve her partnership with Evolve and return to the global powerhouse that is IMG nine.com.au.
The Evolve Legacy Continues
Despite Osaka’s departure, Evolve remains a prominent agency in the tennis world. The agency’s current client roster boasts some of the sport’s brightest stars, including women’s world number one Aryna Sabalenka, and also Anna Kalinskaya, Iva Jovic, Eva Lys, and the always-compelling Nick Kyrgios tennistemple.com. Evolve’s success demonstrates Osaka’s entrepreneurial spirit and keen eye for talent.
IMG’s Star-Studded Roster
IMG already represents a remarkable collection of tennis talent. Currently, they boast partnerships with men’s world number one Carlos Alcaraz, Iga Swiatek, Emma Raducanu, and Taylor Fritz. The agency also maintains a longstanding relationship with tennis icon serena Williams, further solidifying its position as a leader in athlete representation. Notably, IMG expanded its roster last year by signing two-time major winner Coco Gauff, who transitioned from Team8, the agency co-founded by Roger Federer.
What this Means for Osaka and the Industry
Osaka’s return to IMG signifies a strategic move, aligning her with an agency possessing extensive resources and a proven track record of success. IMG’s vast network and expertise in brand building will likely enable Osaka to capitalize on her global appeal and explore new commercial opportunities. The move also underscores the evolving landscape of athlete representation, where athletes are increasingly seeking complete support—from on-court performance to off-court brand management—provided by large, established agencies.
Looking Ahead
With Max Eisenbud at the helm of her representation, osaka is poised for a compelling next chapter in her career. The partnership with IMG signals a renewed focus on maximizing her potential both on and off the court. As Osaka continues to navigate the challenges and opportunities of professional tennis, her return to IMG provides a stable foundation and a powerful platform for future success.
